Exactech Revision Surgery
Exactech revision surgery applies to multiple medical devices, including ankle, knee and hip replacement systems. Exactech implants under varied product lines experienced failures early in their lifespan and were part of 2021 product recalls.
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What Is Exactech Revision Surgery?
Revision surgery involves inserting, removing or replacing the Exactech implant to resolve the recipient’s excessive pain, swelling and stiffness or to correct a loose or poor-fitting device. Exactech recalls include several ankle, hip and knee replacement systems after the company discovered a defect that caused implants to fail prematurely.
Orthopedic surgeons prefer not to take someone through revision surgery. They may suggest waiting to see if time and physical therapy clear up any medical issues first. If they must repair the initial joint replacement, the second surgery could come months or even years after the first implant procedure.
Reasons for Revision Surgery
People with an Exactech implant may require revision surgery if a component fails. Despite a high success rate, Exactech risks include an inability to integrate with the bone or mechanical problems such as premature wear.
These issues can cause discomfort, instability and decreased functionality. Sometimes recipients need a second surgery to remove or replace the implant. Although the Exactech implant aims to avoid infection, some people still develop one after receiving their implant and require revision surgery. To treat a lingering infection, the surgeon removes the original implant, cleans the affected area and inserts a new implant.
Defective Implants and Exactech Recalls
The company issued a sweeping Exactech recall in June 2021 after some products showed excessive and premature failure. The recall was for implant systems made after 2004 from the company’s Optetrak, Arthrofocus, Truliant, Vantage, Acumatch, Novation and MCS product lines.
The recall stemmed from a packaging flaw that deteriorated a polyethylene insert component before use. Exactech knee implants failed prematurely because of insert degradation, leading to revision surgery for implant replacement. Exactech Connexion GXL liners for hip devices led to complications from wear, including pain, limited mobility, bone loss and revision surgery.
People injured because of defective Exactech implants should consult with an attorney experienced in Exactech lawsuits. A lawyer can review legal options and discuss possible compensation. Anyone who received an Exactech ankle, knee or hip should watch for complications, especially those that might require revision surgery.
Signs You May Need Exactech Revision Surgery
Recognizing signs and symptoms of a significant post-surgery complication is crucial to avoiding more harm to your body. Get the right follow-up care to prevent serious health complications.
- Mobility Issues: Range of motion may vary following implant surgery, but you should get close to what the device manufacturer advertised.
- Sudden Pain: Pain can develop slowly and manifest any time, including at rest.
- Swelling: Abnormal swelling, redness or warmth around the joint could be a sign of an infection. If ice, rest and elevation don’t help, see your surgeon.
- Weakness: If you can’t bear weight on your leg because of weakness or instability after the recovery period, follow up with your surgeon.
If any of these symptoms are excessive, you may need revision surgery. See your orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Fixing your implant should be a top priority, especially if you have multiple or severe symptoms.
Revision Surgery Procedure
Exactech revision procedures are more intricate than initial joint replacement surgery and have a higher risk of complications. They may require an extended hospital stay and a longer recovery period. But many people return to everyday routines within a few weeks of surgery.
Revision surgeries for Exactech ankle, knee and hip replacements have varying success rates. Success depends on a few circumstances, such as the patient’s general health, the state of the residual bone, the type of device and the surgical approach.
- Preoperative Evaluation: A surgeon reviews your medical records, takes X-rays or other imaging scans and does a physical exam. The original implant’s condition is assessed, causes of device failure are identified and a revision plan is made.
- Anesthesia and Incision: Most people receive general anesthesia, though some opt for nerve blockers. The surgical team makes a new and sometimes bigger incision near the original to improve access and visibility.
- Removal of Existing Implant: The surgical team uses special instruments to dissect tissues around the implant and remove the implant’s components. They may remove and replace a few parts or the entire implant.
- Bone Preparation and Implant Insertion: Bone surfaces are cleaned, reshaped or reconstructed. Replacement parts or anchors are added using bone grafts or cement for stability or to fill gaps.
- Wound Closure and Recovery: The incision is closed with sutures or staples. A drain to remove excess fluid may be inserted. Close medical monitoring, physical therapy and rehabilitation follow.
Pain management and infection prevention measures help ensure the best recovery and results. You’ll need to stay in the hospital for initial monitoring and pain management.
Once released, continue rehabilitation and physical therapy at home or as an outpatient. You’ll receive a full slate of directions for medications, exercises, wound care and pain management.
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